Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake Recipe

If you are craving a dessert that perfectly blends rich chocolate decadence with creamy tangy cheesecake, then you absolutely must try the Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake. This extraordinary dessert layers moist, velvety chocolate cake with a luscious cheesecake middle and crowns it all with a glossy, smooth Hershey’s chocolate ganache. Every bite delivers a blissful harmony of textures and intense chocolate flavor that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether for a special celebration or just a sweet indulgence, this cake is a guaranteed showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this beautiful Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake. Each component, from the cocoa powder to the cream cheese, works together to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, these ingredients are simple staples that many bakers already have on hand, making this cake as approachable as it is impressive.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure that makes the chocolate cake layers tender yet sturdy enough to hold the cheesecake.
• Unsweetened Hershey’s cocoa powder: Delivers that deep, chocolatey richness essential for the cake’s flavor foundation.
• Baking powder and baking soda: The dynamic duo that ensures your cake rises beautifully and stays light.
• Salt: Enhances all the sweet and chocolate notes for a balanced taste experience.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens both the cake and cheesecake layers while contributing to the cake’s moist crumb.
• Eggs: Add moisture, richness, and help bind the cake and cheesecake layers perfectly.
• Buttermilk: Introduces a slight tang and tenderness, keeping the chocolate layers incredibly soft.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft to the last bite without weighing it down.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet flavors and adds aromatic warmth throughout the cake.
• Hot coffee (or hot water): Intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a smoother batter texture.
• Cream cheese, softened: The star of the cheesecake layer that brings creamy tang and lush texture.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and slight acidity, making the cheesecake layer silky and rich.
• Heavy cream: Used in the ganache for a wonderfully smooth and luscious finish.
• Semi-sweet Hershey’s chocolate, chopped: Melts into the ganache to create that irresistible chocolate glaze.
• Butter (optional): Gives the ganache an added shine that makes the cake look as good as it tastes.

How to Make Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake

Step 1: Bake the Cheesecake Layer

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C) and preparing a springform pan lined with parchment paper. Beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until completely smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to keep that velvety texture. Next, fold in the sour cream and vanilla extract to bring in moisture and a gentle tang. Pour this creamy mixture into the pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the edges are set and the center only slightly jiggles. Let this cool completely before refrigerating—it’s crucial that your cheesecake layer is chilled so it maintains its perfect thickness when assembling.

Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Cake

While the cheesecake chills, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute these dry ingredients. Stir in the sugar, then add eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract—all the ingredients that make the batter rich and moist. The secret here is adding hot coffee last; it thins the batter slightly and magnifies the chocolate flavor remarkably. Divide this thin batter evenly between two greased 9-inch cake pans. Bake these layers for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool fully before the final assembly.

Step 3: Assemble the Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake

Time to bring all your layers together! Place one of your cooled chocolate cake layers on your serving plate. Gently set the chilled cheesecake layer on top, and then crown it with the second chocolate cake layer. This layering creates an absolute showstopper that’s just as impressive to look at as it is to eat.

Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache

The final touch to this spectacular cake is the chocolate ganache. Heat the heavy cream just until it begins to simmer, then pour it carefully over the chopped semi-sweet Hershey’s chocolate. Let it sit for a minute to soften, then stir until smooth and glossy. If desired, stir in a tablespoon of butter to give the ganache an irresistible shine. Pour this luscious glaze over the top of the assembled cake, letting it drip luxuriously down the sides. Chill the whole cake for at least one hour to set the ganache fully—this will make slicing clean and serving a breeze.

How to Serve Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake

Garnishes

To amp up the presentation and flavor, consider topping your Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries—they provide a fresh, slightly tart contrast to the rich chocolate and creamy cheesecake. A sprinkle of shaved Hershey’s chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder adds a professional look that’s easy to achieve at home.

Side Dishes

This cake shines on its own, but pairing it with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream is a lovely way to balance the richness. For a more decadent spread, serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or a glass of cold milk to perfectly complement the chocolate flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra special touch, slice the cake into generous wedges and serve on elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce around the edge. Even a sprinkle of edible gold flakes or a few mint leaves can elevate the experience and wow your guests. Remember, the Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake is naturally stunning, so simple presentations often work best to highlight its beauty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After sharing your Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and maintain its delightful textures for up to four days. Keeping it chilled ensures the ganache stays firm and the cheesecake doesn’t soften too much.

Freezing

If you want to save some of this cake for later, it freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen pieces can last up to two months, and when you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

Since this is a rich, chilled dessert, reheating isn’t usually necessary or recommended. However, if you prefer your chocolate ganache slightly more melty, bring slices to room temperature before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cheesecake to become too warm and lose its structure.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Hershey’s?

While you can substitute other cocoa powders, using Hershey’s cocoa powder is key to achieving the specific richness and flavor that defines the Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake. Different brands may alter the taste profile slightly.

Do I have to use coffee in the cake batter?

The hot coffee is optional but highly recommended because it deepens the chocolate flavor without adding a strong coffee taste. If you prefer, hot water works as a milder substitute.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Be sure the blend has xanthan gum or another binder for structure.

How long should I bake the cheesecake layer to avoid cracking?

Baking at a lower temperature (325°F/160°C) and ensuring the cheesecake is just set in the center with a slight jiggle helps prevent cracks. Cooling the cake gradually and chilling it thoroughly also reduces cracking risks.

Can I prepare the ganache ahead of time?

Yes! The ganache can be made a day in advance—just allow it to cool to room temperature and then refrigerate. Before pouring over the cake, gently warm and stir it until smooth and pourable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the best of creamy cheesecake and rich chocolate cake, the Hershey’s Chocolate Cheesecake Cake is an absolute must-bake. Its layered beauty and outstanding flavor make every bite feel like a celebration, even on ordinary days. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will become your go-to for impressing family and friends—and bringing a big smile to everyone’s face.